Drunk Elephant hyaluronic acid: what to know

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that binds water. In a facial serum or moisturiser, it sits on or near the skin surface and helps the skin feel more hydrated and supple. A skincare product is not a joint injection and should not be expected to treat arthritis, a tendon injury, or deep joint pain. The brand name describes a cosmetic product line; the formulation, concentration, and instructions depend on the specific product.

Medical hyaluronic acid injections are placed by a trained clinician into a selected area for a different purpose. They require an assessment of the joint or tissue, expected benefit, alternatives, and possible adverse effects.

Follow the product label and apply it to clean skin as directed, then use a suitable moisturiser to help retain hydration. Test a small area when trying a new product, particularly if your skin is reactive. Stop if you develop persistent burning, rash, swelling, or worsening irritation. Keep cosmetic products away from the eyes and broken skin unless their instructions say otherwise. For pain inside a joint, seek an appropriate clinical assessment rather than applying serum to the skin over it.

Seek prompt care for facial swelling, widespread hives, wheezing, or trouble breathing after use. Arrange review for a persistent rash, painful skin reaction, or eye exposure that does not settle after gentle rinsing. If you are considering an injection, discuss allergies, infection, medicines, pregnancy, and the specific condition being treated with the clinician first.

Ask whether topical care is relevant to your concern, whether an injection is appropriate, what alternatives exist, and which symptoms after treatment should be reported urgently.